The Average Price of Camping This Year: It's Not Great News

If you’ve hit the open road recently, you might’ve felt a pinch in your wallet that wasn’t there before. Camping, once the quintessential low-cost getaway, has seen a noticeable uptick in prices over the past five years.

It’s like the secret’s out, and everyone’s scrambling to snag a piece of the wilderness pie.

So, what’s behind this surge, and what can you expect to pay at various camping spots across the country?

We’ll break it down into three categories: public campgrounds, RV parks, and RV resorts.

Why Average Camping Prices Are Climbing

First off, the pandemic turned the world upside down and, in the process, sparked a massive surge in outdoor recreation. With international travel on hold, people rediscovered the allure of national parks and campgrounds. This spike in demand meant that campsites could raise prices without fearing empty spots.

Inflation has also been doing its thing, affecting everything from groceries to gas—and camping is no exception. Campgrounds are dealing with higher operational costs, from increased wages to pricier utilities and maintenance.

Naturally, these expenses trickle down to campers.

Then there’s the amenities race. Today’s campers aren’t just looking for a patch of dirt to sleep on; they want Wi-Fi, hot showers, and maybe even a cozy glamping tent. Campgrounds are investing in upgrades to meet these expectations, but those enhancements come with a cost.

Average Price of Public Campgrounds: Keeping It Real with Nature

Public campgrounds, managed by federal, state, or local governments, are where you go to immerse yourself in nature without the frills. They’re the backbone of traditional camping, offering a raw and authentic experience.

As of this year, staying at a public campground will set you back anywhere from $20 to $35 per night on average. Let’s look at a couple of real-life examples to paint a clearer picture.

At the lower end, there’s the Ocala National Forest in Florida. If you’re up for primitive camping, you can snag a spot for about $12 per night. It’s no-frills—no electricity or running water—just you, your tent, and the wilderness. It’s perfect for those seeking a digital detox and a true escape from modern amenities.

On the higher end, consider Mather Campground at Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona. Here, you’ll pay around $30 per night, but you’re steps away from one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. The campground offers flush toilets, drinking water, and access to shuttle buses that navigate the park. It’s a small price for a front-row seat to some of the most breathtaking views on the planet.

Average Price of RV Parks: The Sweet Spot Between Comfort and Adventure

RV parks are where comfort meets the call of the wild. They cater to travelers who want the freedom of the road but aren’t quite ready to give up all the conveniences of home. On average, you can expect to pay between $40 and $70 per night at a standard RV park.

For a more budget-friendly option, check out Happy Acres Campground in Pennsylvania. Nestled in the Allegheny Mountains, this spot offers full hookup sites starting at $35 per night. It’s family-friendly, with basic amenities like a camp store and a playground for the kiddos.

On the flip side, there’s Normandy Farms Family Camping Resort in Massachusetts. Situated between Boston and Cape Cod, this RV park is more of a vacation destination than a simple stopover. Rates are around $85 per night, and the amenities are plentiful—multiple pools, a wellness center, disc golf, and bike rentals. It’s a place where you might be tempted to extend your stay just to enjoy all the extras.

Camping with RV trailer on resort parking camping park

Average Price of RV Resorts: Luxury on Wheels

For those who believe that home is where you park it—but also think home should come with high-end amenities—RV resorts are the answer. These are the five-star hotels of the RV world, offering luxury facilities that rival any upscale resort.

The average cost for an RV resort hovers between $75 and $150 per night, but prices can climb higher depending on location and amenities. Let’s delve into some examples.

Gulf Waters Beach Front RV Resort in Texas offers a taste of beachside living for about $80 per night. Your RV spot is just steps away from the Gulf of Mexico, and the resort features a heated pool, private bathhouses, and a boardwalk leading straight to the beach.

At the top end is Naples Motorcoach Resort in Florida. Here, you’re looking at rates upwards of $200 per night. It’s a lavish experience with waterfront sites, three pools, a theater, and concierge services. It’s like pulling your home into a country club.

The Struggle Is Real: Challenges of Making Reservations

In this digital age, you’d think booking a campsite would be a breeze, but many travelers find it to be quite the opposite. High demand and limited supply mean that securing a spot, especially in popular destinations, can feel like winning the lottery.

National parks like Yosemite and Yellowstone see campsites booked solid within minutes of reservations opening up—often six months in advance. The surge in popularity has led to technical glitches on reservation websites like Recreation.gov, where the sheer volume of users can cause the system to crash.

Adding to the frustration, some individuals use bots to snatch up multiple reservations, only to resell them at inflated prices. It’s a practice that not only drives up costs but also makes it harder for genuine campers to find a spot.

So, what’s a traveler to do?

One strategy is to set reminders for when reservations open and be ready to book immediately. Apps like Campnab can monitor campgrounds for cancellations, giving you a chance to snag a spot if someone else drops out.

Also, consider exploring lesser-known parks and campgrounds where competition for sites isn’t as fierce.

Crafting the Ultimate Road Trip: A Blend of Camping Experiences

Now, let’s imagine hitting the road on a cross-country adventure that lets you experience the full spectrum of camping—from rustic public campgrounds to luxurious RV resorts.

Starting Point: Bar Harbor, Maine

Kick off your journey at Acadia National Park, staying at Blackwoods Campground for about $30 per night. Here, you’ll wake up to the scent of pine and the sound of the Atlantic Ocean crashing against rocky shores.

Hike up Cadillac Mountain to catch the first sunrise in the United States, and don’t forget to indulge in some fresh Maine lobster.

Next Stop: Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

Head south to Big Meadows Campground, where the nightly rate is around $20. Drive along Skyline Drive, a scenic route that offers panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. T

he park’s hiking trails lead you to cascading waterfalls and lush forests teeming with wildlife.

Swing Through: Asheville, North Carolina

Settle in at the Asheville East KOA Holiday, an RV park costing about $55 per night. Asheville is a hub for art, music, and craft beer.

Explore the vibrant downtown scene or take a leisurely drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Onward to: Nashville, Tennessee

Park at the Nashville KOA Resort for approximately $90 per night. This RV resort offers amenities like a pool, fitness center, and live entertainment.

Immerse yourself in the city’s rich musical heritage by visiting the Grand Ole Opry and the Country Music Hall of Fame.

Journey to: Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas

Stay at the Hot Springs National Park KOA, where rates are around $50 per night. Relax in the historic bathhouses filled with thermal waters, or hike the park’s serene trails.

The town itself is charming, with a blend of history and natural beauty.

Head West to: Santa Fe, New Mexico

At Santa Fe Skies RV Park, costing about $60 per night, you’ll find yourself in a cultural melting pot. Santa Fe is known for its Pueblo-style architecture, art galleries, and the immersive Meow Wolf experience—a must-see for fans of interactive art.

Final Destination: San Diego, California

Conclude your trip at Chula Vista RV Resort for around $110 per night. Enjoy Southern California’s sunny beaches, visit the renowned San Diego Zoo, and experience the lively Gaslamp Quarter.

Throughout this journey, you’ll have sampled the full range of camping options, each offering its own unique flavor of adventure. From the simplicity of a tent under the stars to the luxury of a resort-style RV park, this road trip showcases the diverse ways to explore and enjoy the great outdoors.

Budget Breakdown

Total Nights: 14
Average Cost per Night: $62
Total Accommodation Cost: Approximately $870

Tips for a Smooth Journey

To make the most of your adventure, consider joining membership programs like Good Sam Club or Passport America. These organizations offer discounted rates at affiliated RV parks and resorts, which can add up to significant savings over time.

If you’re open to it, boondocking—or free camping on public lands—is another way to cut costs and enjoy some solitude. Just be prepared for off-grid living, as these spots often lack amenities like electricity and running water.

For those looking to extend their travels without breaking the bank, workamping is an option. Some campgrounds offer free stays in exchange for a few hours of work per week. It’s a great way to immerse yourself in a community and save money simultaneously.

The Average Price of Camping is on an Upward Trend

While the cost of camping has indeed risen, so has the array of experiences available to outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re a traditionalist who revels in the simplicity of a tent and campfire or someone who enjoys the comforts of home on the road, there’s a place for you under the stars.

The key is to stay informed and flexible. Plan ahead when possible, but also be open to spontaneous detours and discoveries.

After all, some of the best stories come from the unplanned moments—the surprise campsite that had a cancellation or the small town you only stopped in because you needed gas.